Sports News of Saturday, 16 August 2025

Source: www.punchng.com

Falcons’ bonuses paid, houses, $100K reward imminent – NSC

The National Sports Commission has dismissed rumours regarding unpaid bonuses for the Super Falcons, stating that all outstanding payments were settled before the team’s final match against Morocco, whilst assuring that promised houses and $100,000 rewards remain imminent.

NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade confirmed this during an appearance on Arise TV on Friday, directly addressing concerns raised by star player Rasheedat Ajibade about unfulfilled promises.

“I can confirm authoritatively that all their bonuses have been paid. I spoke with Ajibade yesterday and with the NFF, and everybody is on the same page,” Olopade said.

However, the NSC chief acknowledged potential discrepancies, noting that one or two players might not have collected their bonuses due to banking issues with the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Regarding the $100,000 reward promised for the Super Falcons’ 2024 WAFCON victory, Olopade assured that presidential commitments would be honoured.

“On the promise of Mr President, I can assure you that it will be paid,” he said.

The NSC is also working with the Minister of Works and Housing to deliver promised houses for the team.

“The NSC is in contact with the Minister of Works and Housing and with the Renewed Hope Housing Initiative to ensure that they receive their houses in record time,” Olopade stated.

His comments came in response to Ajibade’s recent interview, where she expressed frustration over delayed payments.

“We have not received our money, but hopefully, it would be paid. They have not paid all the promises, we have not received anything,” Ajibade had said, adding that match bonuses were still being processed.

Olopade emphasised the NSC’s commitment to athlete welfare, saying, “The NSC doesn’t play with the remuneration and welfare of athletes,” whilst assuring that all outstanding issues would be resolved soon.